Burnout – it’s a concept that is easily felt and understood, especially among those who experience the symptoms. Evidence-based research and common sense tells us that, if gone untreated, the result of burnout could be catastrophic. With the stakes so high, why is it so difficult to approach a colleague or partner who you suspect may be suffering from the ravages of burnout?
As physicians trained to ‘never show weakness,’ breaking through to a struggling peer requires lowering emotional barriers and the ability to expose vulnerabilities. Learn how to approach a peer who is in need of help by joining the next Wellness Wednesdays webinar on Wednesday, April 18, at 12:15 p.m.; free registration is open for physicians and their care teams to participate in the program.
“The presentation will include practical methods to confront a peer who you suspect needs outreach – either a simple offer to listen or a more serious professional intervention,” said Nelson Heise, clinical director at the Ohio Physicians Health Program and the facilitator of OAFP’s Wellness Wednesdays program.
“Participants will discuss when an appropriate time to address your concerns with your peer, what challenges you might face in the process, and understand the realities if your concern is not embraced.” The goal of this session is to empower physicians to breakthrough awkward professional barriers and place emphasis on physician health first, “continued Heise.
Wellness Wednesdays is a structured, bi-monthly webinar series that focuses on enhancing professional and personal wellness through the joy of medicine. The series is facilitated by a licensed health care professional, is offered free, and scheduled on a Wednesday over the typical lunch hour (12:15 – 1 p.m.)
Participants will start each session with a brief overview of the discussion topic and then led through a practical exercise that helps the participant learn through self-exploration and personal awareness. Participants will have the opportunity to share their own insight at the end of the 45-minute program and make connections with their peers who are also interested in wellness and professional satisfaction.
Webinar Series Schedule and Registration
| Date | Discussion Topic (register for a session by clicking the title) |
| April 18 12:15-1:00 p.m. |
How to Approach a Peer Who is in Need of Help |
| June 20 12:15-1:00 p.m. |
Exploring Tools and Resources for Overcoming Burnout |
| August 22 12:15-1:00 p.m. |
How to Deal with Negative Criticism |
| October 17 12:15-1:00 p.m. |
Coping with the Emotional Impact of Adverse Patient Outcomes |
| December 12 12:15-1:00 p.m. |
Reframing Perspective: Harnessing the Power of Giving Others the Benefit of the Doubt |
Archives of the previously recorded sessions and resources can be accessed on the OAFP website.
For more information about the webinar series, please contact Deputy Executive Vice President Kate Mahler, CAE, or call 800.742.7327.